Center for Alternative Fuels Engines and Emissions

CAFEE is a global leader in the research and development of technologies to improve efficiency in transportation and power systems, while working toward a cleaner environment.

A non-profit research center operating within academic surroundings, CAFEE is a $4 million annual enterprise within the Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources Advanced Energy Initiative. The CAFEE staff works extensively on emission reduction research — particularly engine technologies, post-combustion technologies, after-treatment evaluation, and fuel technologies.

Seven faculty members, five full-time staff engineers, five technicians, and more than 30 Ph.D. and M.S. graduate students.

Diverse Fuel Experience

Ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD)

Biodiesel

Natural Gas (CNG, LNG)

Hydrogen

Electric and Hybrid Systems

and others

Unique Qualifications

developed the world's first mobile on-board emission testing system

one of the few engine labs in the country recognized by both California and Texas air quality boards

the only mobile heavy-duty chassis dynamometer in the region

measured heavy-duty vehicle emissions from over 1,000 buses and trucks at more than 100 locations across North America

built the largest national database of heavy-duty vehicle exhaust emissions and fuel efficiency data

Product Compliance Testing

Engines

Vehicles

Locomotives

Aftertreatment Systems

Fuel Additives

Retrofit Kits

Federal and State Agency Standards

CAFEE research appeals to both equipment manufacturers, who must certify their vehicles to meet government emissions performance standards, and government agencies, which are charged with enforcing such regulations.
The center has received research funding from the U.S. Department of Energy, U.S. Department of Transportation, the Environmental Protection Agency, major engine manufacturers, the California Air Resources Board, and several state and municipal transit agencies. CAFEE's laboratories conduct high-level research for a variety of companies and organizations, among them fuel suppliers (BP, Chevron), engine manufacturers (Caterpillar, Cummins, Detroit Diesel), and vehicle manufacturers (Ford, General Motors).